William "Jim" James Mead

With deep love and sorrow, the family of William James (Jim) Mead announces his peaceful passing in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, on December 6, 2025, at the age of 77. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Janice Mead (née Ryan); his daughter Karla Mellor (née Mead) and her daughters Claire and Norah Mellor; and his son Kevin Mead and his daughters Hannah and Ava Mead. His family was the heart of his life, and he was endlessly proud of each of them.

Jim was born on March 6, 1948, in Edmonton, Alberta, to William Mead and Isabella Mead (née Samson). He grew up in Edmonton into a man of strong character, steady integrity, and unwavering commitment to those he served and loved.

Jim proudly dedicated his career to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, serving as a Regular Member from November 1969 until his retirement on January 1, 1997. Most of his distinguished service was spent in the Police Dog Service, a role he embraced with pride, skill, and devotion. 

Enrolling in the Force in November 1969, he successfully completed training at Depot and was transferred to Surrey, BC in 1970 as a GD Constable. After a short time in GD, he was selected as a canine handler for the Police Dog Service in 1975.  In 1977, he, and the growing family was transferred to the Kelowna Detachment where he served as one of two handlers for the Interior, promoted to Corporal.  In addition to a full complement of PDS duties, he also found himself dedicated to a demanding role with BC Search and Rescue. After 11 years in Kelowna, he was promoted to Sergeant and transferred to the Police Dog Service Training Centre in Innisfail, AB in 1988, where he served as an instructor and eventually managing the puppy program and dog acquisition, retiring from the Force on January 1, 1997.     

Following retirement from the Force, the kids went onward to post-secondary education, while Jim and Jan moved to Sherwood Park, AB, to be closer to extended family.  During their time in Sherwood Park, Jim pursued some personal interests, not the least of which was training a guide dog which ended up becoming the family pet! In 2008, they moved to Sorrento, BC after finding a home overlooking Shuswap Lake. They split their time in retirement travelling North America in their fifth wheel, engaging with a number of community groups to include the Lions and Shuswap District RCMP Veterans Association.

A man of integrity, loyalty, and deep compassion, with an uncanny sense of humour, Jim leaves behind a legacy of service to his country and steadfast love for his family. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, his dedication, and the example he set for all who knew him.

At Jim’s request, cremation has taken place, and a private internment will take place at a later date.  Details regarding a casual local gathering will be shared by the family shortly.